top of page
IS_06570-Edit_edited.jpg

Compassionate Counsel & Strong Representation

With decades of family law experience in North Carolina, The Lea/Schultz Law Firm serves as a steady hand at the helm, guiding clients through divorce, custody matters, and complex family law challenges.

IS_07694-Edit_edited.jpg

Tailored Counsel—Built Around You

Our team provides personal attention and clear communication so clients feel supported and prepared at every stage of the process.

Cullen Lea

Protecting What Matters Most to You

Our clients rely on us for more than legal strategy, they rely on us for stability during uncertain times.  We show up prepared, steady, and fully committed to protecting what matters most to you.

humane divorce book cover(2).jpg

The Humane Divorce: Breaking Up Without Breaking Down

Whether you’re the one leaving, the one left, or both, The Humane Divorce helps you answer the question, “How do I get through this without destroying myself—or anyone else?”

WHY CLIENTS TRUST OUR FIRM

When your family's future is on the line, experience and excellence matter.

Decades of Family Law Experience

Led by James W. Lea III, our firm brings more than four decades of experience in North Carolina family law. Clients trust our deep understanding of divorce, custody, and complex domestic matters to guide them through difficult legal decisions with clarity and confidence.

Recognized Leadership in Family Law

Our attorneys have earned recognition from respected legal organizations including Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers for their work in family law, reflecting a strong reputation among both clients and peers.

Strategic Representation That Protects What Matters

We bring a strategic approach to complex financial issues, including business ownership and high-asset divorce. Just as important, our team provides personal attention and clear communication so clients feel supported and prepared at every stage of the process.

lea schultz team group gray background(1)_edited.jpg

REAL CLIENTS, REAL RESULTS

Our clients trust us to navigate life’s toughest legal waters.

★★★★★
"Prompt, Devoted, and Empathetic"

Through it all, Mr. Lea stood by my side.  He and his entire team were prompt, devoted, and empathetic every step of the way. I especially want to thank Kara, whose understanding nature, elegant communication, and constant reassurance made such a difference during this difficult process.

★★★★★
"An Excellent Attorney and Genuinely Good Person"

The team at Lea/Schultz gave me the confidence and support I needed to keep going. Mr. Lea is not only an excellent attorney but also a genuinely good person. He promised to do everything in his power to help me—and he stayed true to that promise. He is calm, level-headed, and a total professional in the courtroom.

★★★★★
"Compassion, Tenacity and Excellent Legal Skills"

Mr. Schultz learned the legal aspects of my case inside and out. A part of me was able to relax knowing that someone was looking out for my legal rights. Mr. Schultz was able to stand strong and see my case through to a very favorable outcome. When you hire an attorney, you want someone with not only compassion but tenacity and excellent legal skills.

The Lea/Schultz Law Firm Family Law and Divorce Attorneys in Wilmington, NC

JAMES W. LEA III — RECOGNIZED BY BEST LAWYERS IN AMERICA® 2026

Guiding families through the complexities of North Carolina family law, our award-winning attorneys combine expertise, compassion, and unwavering dedication.

Chart a new course —schedule your consultation.

We’re ready to learn everything about your situation, assets affected, and children involved. From there, we’ll develop a strategy designed to produce the best outcome for you and your family. 

bottom of page